Cop's Corner Published June 24, 2010 31st Security Forces Squadron Aviano Air Base, Italy -- On June 3, a civilian dependent entered the Police Service Desk to report stolen properties. The dependent stated that while stopped in traffic on Via Palermo in Catania, Italy, an unidentified motorcyclist pulled up behind them, dismounted the motorcycle and forced the vehicle door open. The unidentified motorcyclist then grabbed a purse from the dependents lap and sped off on his motorcycle down an adjacent alley. The purse contained Passport, social security card, AFI License, Codice Fiscale, Italian identification card, military ID card, phones, two bank cards, approximately 60 Euros, house keys and several personal photos. Sometimes situations like this are unavoidable. However, there are measures one can take to make yourself a "hard target". When operating vehicle, keep doors to unoccupied seats locked and secured. When stopped in traffic, a good rule is to ensure both rear tires can be seen from the drivers seated position. This will provide people the ability to immediately change vehicle direction if the situation warrants it. Finally, no amount of property is worth injury or accident, surrender any property, make your way to a secure location, and immediately contact security forces at 0434 30 7200. On June 5, an active-duty servicemember entered the emergency communications center and stated their spouse was awakened by an unidentified individual shaking the front door of their residence. The dependent further stated that after being awakened by the noise they immediately turned on the porch light and ran to an upstairs window in an attempt to visually survey the area. The dependent provided no further information. Minor damage was reported to the front door handle. "The best defense is a good offence!" In this case, the proactive actions taken surly contributed to the trespassers "reconsideration." There are two easy steps to making one a hard target. Defense and offense! Defense: Always lock and deadbolt, if possible, all windows and doors. Locks, hasps and chains serve as an excellent deterrence for not so committed thieves and in the event one is faced with a committed thief, a time delay, which would permit an escape or better yet, call security forces response! Offense: Trim shrubs, trees, and attempt to eliminate any potential hiding places near the home. For those deficiencies that can't be eliminated, attempt to mitigate by using exterior lighting. If a situation like this should occur, immediately contact security forces at 0434 30 7200 followed by a trusted neighbor and friend. On June 7, a civilian dependent entered the PSD to report stolen property. The dependent stated a purse containing an ATM card, military ID card and multiple photos was stolen while at a club. The purse had been placed behind a couch and left unattended. Sometime later, the dependent returned, only to discover her purse had been stolen. This situation could have been easily avoided had the individual exercised situational awareness. A dark crowded room, such as one would find in a night club or bar serves as the perfect breeding ground for would be thieves and pickpockets. Remember, not all patrons that frequent these types of venues are there for recreational purposes. When planning a night out on the town remember these three easy tips. No. 1, make sure you have a wingman and watch out for each other! No. 2, only take valuables or critical documents that are absolutely necessary. No. 3, listen to intuition. Often times each victim reflects, in one way or another, a lapse in judgment contributed to their situation. Crime Prevention Tip of The Week: The 31st Security Forces Squadron recommends everyone to permanently mark and record all valuables. Some methods include engraving or permanently marking accountability numbers and videotaping or photographing property. Maintain a copy of individual marking, location of markings, serial numbers, and any photos or video tapes in a safe place for future use. Not only do marked products allow for easy identification by police, but this information may come in handy during PCS season.